The foundation will provide the funds and resources over 5 years. Habitat affiliates will build 5,000 homes that meet Energy Star guidelines and green building standards, 1,500 of which will be built this and next year.

Partners in Sustainable Building was established last year, with a pilot program that built 260 sustainable homes. The program adheres to Environmental Protection Agency standards, which require:

Up to 50 percent less energy usage

Up to a 33% decrease in indoor water consumption, with installation of high-efficiency plumbing fixtures and appliances

Durable materials that lower maintenance costs over the life of the home, which increases affordability

A reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

“From a new energy-efficient water heater and weather stripping to programmable thermostats and a low-flow toilet and bathroom fixtures, our family is already seeing savings in our monthly utility bills,” says Brian, a Habitat homeowner from the pilot program. “We’re so excited about our new home. To know it’s one that we can afford to maintain and live in for years to come means so much for our family.”

“By embracing the practical principles of green building, our partnership with Habitat for Humanity International is demonstrating that these techniques can actually make homes more affordable to own, maintain and live in from day one and for the long term,” says Kelly Caffarelli, president of The Home Depot Foundation. “With health and economic concerns at an all-time high, this issue is more important than ever for the families who will purchase these homes.”